System and method for removing cataract or other cells in an eye using water jet and suction

ABSTRACT

A system for removing cells from an interior portion of an eye, including a continuous passageway adapted to pass a fluid therethrough. A first cutting device is coupled to an exterior portion of the continuous passageway for dislodging cells from the interior portion of the eye. The first cutting device moves relative to the exterior portion of the continuous passageway due to the passing of the fluid through the continuous passageway.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/197,266, filed Jul. 18, 2002, now abandoned, entitled “System and Method for Removing Cataract or Other Cells in an Eye Using Water Jet and Suction”, which is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/597,737, filed Jun. 19, 200, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,078, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Related subject matter is disclosed in copending U.S. patent application of Gholam A. Peyman entitled “System and Method for Thermally and Chemically Treating Cells at Sites of Interest in the Body to Impede Cell Proliferation”, Ser. No. 09/494,248, filed on Jan. 31, 2000, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system and method for treating and removing cells in an interior chamber of an eye, such as in the lens capsule of an eye. More particularly the present invention relates to a system and method that treats cataract using a rotating device or blade to kill and dislodge the cells forming the cataract from the eye without or substantially without causing protein denaturation to occur in the eye, and then using an aspirator or return tube for removing the fluid in the eye and the cells dislodged therefrom.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cataract is a condition that creates cloudiness in the lens of an eye, and is one of the major causes of blindness in the developing world. Cataract occurs in the lens of an eye and impedes the lens from focusing light on the retina. The lens is composed of tightly packed lens fibers surrounded by a collagenous elastic capsule. Beneath the lens capsule are epithelial cells, which are responsible for the metabolic function of the lens. Cataract may occur in any or all of these parts of the lens, which results in several different classifications of cataract, namely, subcapsular, cortical, and nuclear. To treat cataract, the cloudy portion of the lens, whether it is in the lens fibers, the epithelial, or both, or in any other portion of the lens, should be surgically removed. Generally, this is attempted by making an incision in the corneal periphery (limbus) to enter the anterior chamber and remove the cataract.

A conventional method for removing cataract in the eye is the (manual) extracapsular technique. In this procedure, the eye is opened at the limbus, and either a bent needle or any other curved sharp edged instrument or special forceps are employed to open the anterior lens capsule and remove the nucleus within the capsule of the lens. Thereafter, the remaining cortical material is removed so as to leave a clear posterior lens capsule in the eye. The capsule provides a barrier between the anterior chamber and the vitreous cavity of the eye, as well as a resting surface for an implanted artificial lens. However, this method results in an incision of about 7 millimeters being made, thus creating an open system in the lens capsule. In other words, this method makes any fluid that is irrigated into the lens capsule difficult to retain and remove.

Other types of cell removing techniques, such as phacoemulsification, use a probe containing an ultrasonic wave generator, a rinsing fluid and a suction tip. In the phacoemulsification technique, an incision is made in the cornea of an eye and the probe is inserted. Compacted proteins of the lens nucleus are broken up by ultrasonic power and are emulsified by a rinsing fluid. The emulsified lens proteins as well as soft peripheral lens proteins are removed from the eye by the suction tip. Phacoemulsification is generally considered superior to extracapsular surgery because it only requires a surgical wound of about 2–3 millimeters as opposed to about 7 millimeters. However, the problem with phacoemulsification is that opacification of the remaining capsule or posterior capsular opacification can occur. This opacification is caused by proliferation of the remaining lens epithelium, which this procedure has failed to remove from the remaining capsule entity. An example of this type of technique is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,066,138 to Sheffer et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Several similar techniques exist for treating and removing cells in the body using an aspirator and/or an irrigator. For example, numerous types of devices use a high-pressure water jet to remove plaque deposits from the arterial walls of a patient.

Generally, these techniques use a tube with a high-pressure water jet, an evacuation tube, and a balloon. The balloon is inflated within the blood vessel to hold the tube in the desired position adjacent a plaque deposit. The water jet then ablates the plaque, and evacuates the ablated plaque through the evacuation tube.

Although these conventional systems may be useful for removing tissue in a blood vessel, they are generally ineffective for removing cells in the eye. Specifically, the balloon in the conventional systems does not assist in removing cells or help in killing the cells to impede cell multiplication. Additionally, the balloon's purpose in the existing apparatuses is to hold the device in place, thus making the movement of the device difficult and less effective for removing cells from inside a lens capsule. Examples of these types of techniques are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,911,163 to Fina; U.S. Pat. No. 5,290,295 to Querals et al; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,370,609, 5,496,267, and 5,785,675 all to Drasler et al; U.S. Pat. No. 5,439,446 to Barry; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,514,092 to Forman et al., the entire contents of each are incorporated herein by reference.

Thus, there is a continuing need to improve the systems and methods for removing cataract and preventing unwanted cell proliferation in the eye.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for removing cells from an eye, such as cells in the lens epithelium, to eliminate or substantially eliminate posterior capsular opacification.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for separating and removing the lens epithelium from the lens capsule substantially simultaneously.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for removing cells from the eye that employs an apparatus having a relatively small cross section, thus allowing for a relatively small incision in the lens capsule for entry of the apparatus.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for removing cells from the eye that creates a semi-closed system within the lens capsule to allow for easy irrigation and aspiration of fluid into and out of the eye.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for removing cells from the eye that uses a rotatable portion to separate the lens epithelium from the lens capsule and an aspirating device or return tube to remove the lens epithelium and the fluid from the lens capsule.

The foregoing and other objects are basically obtained by providing a system for removing cells from an interior portion of an eye, including a continuous passageway adapted to pass for a fluid therethrough, and a first cutting edge coupled to an exterior portion of said continuous passageway for dislodging cells from the interior portion of the eye. The first cutting device moves relative to the exterior portion of the continuous passageway due to the passing of fluid through the continuous passageway.

The foregoing objects are further obtained by providing a system adapted for insertion into an eye for removing cells from an interior portion of the eye, including a rotatable continuous passageway having at least one aperture therethrough and being adapted to pass a fluid therethrough. The fluid flows adjacent the at least one aperture, which causes a suctioning force through the aperture. The at least one aperture is adapted to allow cells to pass therethrough and into the continuous passageway, and the suctioning force is adapted to dislodge cells from the eye.

Other objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, disclose preferred embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to the drawings which form a part of this disclosure:

FIG. 1 illustrates a system for removing cells according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is being inserted into the lens capsule of an eye shown in cross-section;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a brushing device and irrigating and aspirating tubes of the system shown in FIG. 1 inserted into the lens capsule of an eye;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the brushing device and the irrigating and aspirating tubes shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an elevational end view of the brushing device and the irrigating and aspirating tubes taken along lines 4—4 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the brushing device and the irrigating and aspirating tubes taken along lines 5—5 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the irrigating and aspirating tubes taken along lines 6—6 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the brushing device and irrigating and aspirating tubes of the system shown in FIG. 1 being inserted through a posterior chamber of the eye;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the brushing device and irrigating and aspirating tubes of the system for removing cells as shown in FIG. 7 with additional aspirating and irrigating tubes being inserted into the posterior chamber of the eye;

FIG. 9 illustrates a system for removing cells according to second embodiment of the present invention, which is being inserted into the lens capsule of an eye;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the brushing device and the irrigating and aspirating tubes of the system shown in FIG. 9, in which the brush moves relative to the irrigating and aspirating tubes;

FIG. 11 is an end elevational view of the brushing device and irrigating and aspirating tubes taken along lines 11—11 of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the brushing device and irrigating and aspirating tubes taken along lines 12—12 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the irrigating and aspirating tubes taken along lines 13—13 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the system shown in FIG. 9, modified such that the brushing device oscillates relative to the aspirating and irrigating tubes;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 9, modified such that the brushing device rotates relative to the aspirating and irrigating tubes;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 14 taken along lines 16—16.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of a brushing device and the high pressure fluid system according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is an elevational end view of the brushing device and the high pressure and return tubes taken along lines 18—18 in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the brushing device and the high pressure and return tubes taken along lines 19—19 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the high pressure and return tubes taken along lines 20—20 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a high pressure fluid system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional detailed perspective view of a high pressure fluid system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention which is adapted for use in the system shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a second tank configuration for the high pressure fluid system of FIG. 21; and

FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional detailed perspective view of a high pressure fluid system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention which is adapted for use with the system shown in FIG. 23.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, a system 10 for removing cataract has cleaning instrument such as a brush 12 coupled to one end of a tube or catheter 14 and a manifold or joint 18 coupled to the other end of tube 14. Manifold 18 has two more tubes or catheters 22 and 24 extending therefrom, with tube 22 terminating into pump 20. Pump 20 is then coupled to reservoir 26 through tube or catheter 28. Tube 24 extends from manifold 18 to safety monitor 30, which is in turn is coupled to reservoir 32 by tube or catheter 34.

Tubes 22, 24, 28 and 34 are formed from synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable material. Tubes 22, 24, 28 and 34 can be flexible or rigid as desired and can be any tube or catheter that is known to one skilled in the art.

Manifold 18 is formed from synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable rigid material. Manifold 18 can be any manifold that is known to one skilled in the art and would allow multiple tubes to be interconnected. Additionally, manifold 18 is cable of joining two tubes 22 and 24, for example that have one passageway, to a tube that has two passageways, such as tube 14.

Pump 20 is preferably a conventional reciprocating piston pump able to create a high pressure fluid jet, but may be any suitable pump.

Monitor 30 is a conventional monitor that would measure the pressure in the tube 24 and compare this pressure with the pressure of the fluid being inserted into the eye. If these pressures were significantly different, the monitor would be capable of shutting down the pump 20 and terminating the procedure. This may be necessary if some of the dislodged cells, or any other substance, were to become caught in a tube and hinder the passage of fluid or other cells.

Reservoirs 26 and 32 are substantially similar and can be any conventional reservoir for storing fluids as is known to one skilled in the art.

As seen specifically in FIG. 2, brush 12 can be inserted into eye 36 through cornea 38, into the anterior chamber 40, passing the iris 42 and through the surface 44 of lens 46, and thus into the lens capsule 48 where the brush 12 contacts lens fiber 45 and/or epithelial 47. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7 and described in more detail below, the brush can be inserted into eye 36 through posterior chamber 49, behind iris 42, through the surface 44 of lens 46 and into lens capsule 48, or into the eye 36 in any other suitable manner.

Brush 12 is preferably an expandable balloon made from a synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable expandable material, and has a fluid container allowing the balloon to be deflated and inserted through a small incision in the eye 36 and subsequently inflated with a heated fluid, such as water, saline solution or any other suitable fluid. However, brush 12 does not necessarily have to be expandable, and may be a relatively small ball at the end of tube 14, or on an outer surface of tube 14, or can have any other configuration that would allow passage through a small incision in the eye 36. As seen in FIGS. 3–5, brush 12 is preferably cylindrical or substantially cylindrical having an outwardly facing exterior surface 50 with an abrasive surface or bristles 52 extending therefrom, an inwardly facing exterior facing surface 54, and an interior surface 56 defining interior chamber 58. However, brush 12 may be any suitable configuration that would enable it to couple to tube 14 and be inserted into the lens capsule of the eye 38 or any other chamber in the eye 38.

Surface 54 of balloon 12 is preferably coupled to tube 14 and tube 60 by a bonding agent, such as glue or any other conventional method. However, balloon 12 does not necessarily have to couple to tubes 14 or 60 in this manner, but can be coupled to one side of tube 14 and/or tube 60, or surround only a portion of tube 14. Brush 12 can also be disposed on a separate instrument attached to any suitable device that would allow the balloon to be inserted into an incision in eye 36.

Tube 60 extends through hole 62 in surface 56 of brush 12 and into chamber 58. Tube 60 has a through passageway 61 and is adapted to fill chamber 58 with a suitable heated fluid, such as water or saline solution. As shown in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6, tube 60 is preferably coupled and parallel to tube 14 and is formed from a synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable material.

The heated fluid that inflates brush 12 is preferably heated to a temperature of at or about 5 degrees Celsius or more above the normal body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, which causes cell death. Specifically, heating cells to a temperature of between at or about 42 degrees Celsius and at or 60 degrees Celsius, or more preferably to at or about 45 to at or about 55 degrees Celsius, causes cell death. Heating cells to higher temperatures, such as at or about 60 degrees Celsius or higher, causes protein denaturation in the cells, which results in immediate cell death. The protein denaturation phenomenon also causes coagulation of the cells in the heated area and becomes difficult to remove, because the cells adhere tightly together.

Tube 14 may be made from a synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable material and may have a rigid portion 64, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, that allows for manipulation of the brush 12, and a flexible portion 66 that allows for easier use and storage. As seen in FIGS. 3–6, tube 14 preferably has an inner surface 68, an outer surface 70, a distal end 71, and a wall 72. Wall 72 and surface 68 defining two equal or substantially equal through passageways 74 and 76. However, passageways 74 and 76 do not have to be substantially equal, and may be any size or suitable configuration that would allow a fluid to pass therethrough. Additionally, passageways 74 and 76 do not necessarily need to be disposed in the same tube, but may be two separate tubes. As shown in FIG. 3, passageway 74 is adapted to pass a fluid or liquid 78 through orifice 75 at distal end 71 and irrigate an interior chamber of the eye, while passageway 76 is adapted to allow fluid to pass through orifice 77 at distal end 71 and aspirate an interior chamber of the eye, removing any excess fluid or dislodged cells.

The fluid 78 is preferably a pressurized jet of water, saline solution or any other suitable fluid that is irrigated into the lens capsule 48 or any other area of the eye 36 using pump 20. However, the fluid 78 is not necessarily under high pressure and be under any pressure included substantially zero. Fluid 78 may be a normal balanced salt solution, a 2% alcohol solution, heated fluid of at or about 20 degrees Celsius to at or about 60 degrees Celsius (more preferably to at or about 40–50 degrees Celsius, even more preferably to at or about 42–43 degrees Celsius). Heating fluid to at or about 42–42 degrees Celsius is the optimum temperature for killing the cells in the interior of the eye without causing protein denaturation in the remaining healthy cells. Additionally fluid 78 can be an enzyme, such as plasmin, tissue plasminogen activator, urokinase, and chondrotinase, or antibiotics such as, aminoglycosides and gentamycin. Fluid 78 may be one or more of these substances used independently or sequentially to damage the lens epithelium. Enzymes may be used to loosen up the lens epithelium. The alcohol solution is preferably to kill the desired epithelial cells and further loosen their attachment to the lens capsule. Heated water or saline may be used to denaturize the cell's protein and wash out the lens epithelium. While the use of aminoglycoside or gentamycin help the cells damaged membrane and promote infection prophylaxis. The use of these solutions in a sequentially removes the lens fiber and the epithelial from the lens capsule without causing protein denaturization. In addition, tubes 22, 24, 28 and 38 preferably have one passageway as it is necessary to only move fluid or liquid in one direction therethrough, but can have two passageways in a substantially similar configuration to tube 14.

Operation

Initially, a relatively small incision (approximately 2–3 mm) is preferably made through the limbus, but may be through any other portion of the cornea 38 or of the eye 36 using a lancet or any other suitable knife. The lancet or knife is preferably a separate instrument, but may be attached to the brush 12 or tube 14 or any other suitable device. Another relatively small incision of a predetermined size, similar to that above, is made in the surface of the lens capsule. As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the brush 12 and tubes 14 and 60 are then inserted through the incisions and the brush is inflated with an appropriate fluid. The fluid is of a temperature, described above, that heats the balloon to a desired temperature and kills the cells with which it comes into contact. Additionally, the abrasive surface or bristles 52 on the brush may be used to scrape and dislodge the lens epithelial 47 or other unwanted cells. Pump 20 is then activated, pumping water from the reservoir 26, through the manifold 18 and into passageway 74 of tube 14. The pump preferably creates pressurized jet of fluid 78, which dislodges and kills the desired cells and removes most of the lens fibers 45 and epithelium 47 in the lens capsule 48. However, the pump 20 may be used to pump the fluid 78 at any pressure, including substantially zero. As described above, the fluid may be any of the stated substances or may be a combination of the substances inserted in any desired order. Inserting a sequence of separate fluids may be accomplished by removing receptacle 26 replacing it with another containing a desired substance, or alternatively, there may be multiple reservoirs in parallel that can be activated manually, depending on which fluid is to be infused into the eye 36.

The relatively small incision in the lens capsule 48 preferably results in a semi-closed system in which the dislodged cells and the irrigated fluid are contained and removed through the aspirating passageway 76 of tube 14. However, it is not necessary for the system 10 to operate in a semi-closed system (particularly if the irrigated fluid is not pressurized). The suction needed for this passageway 76 is automatically caused by the pressure differential due to the increased pressure in the lens capsule 48 and the pressure in the passageway 76. The fluid passes through monitor 30 and into the reservoir 32.

The brush 12 and tubes 14 may then be removed and the lens capsule 48 filled with a transparent biocompatable elastic substance or a portion of the lens capsule 48 can be removed for implantation of a standard intraocular lens, in the remaining capsular portion. For a further description of intraocular lenses see U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,581,031 and 4,666,446, both to Koziol et al., the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Embodiment of FIG. 8

A system 110 according to another embodiment of the present invention will now be described. As seen in FIG. 8, system 110 has tubes 114 and 116. Tube 114 is an irrigation tube that is formed from material and produces a water jet that is substantially similar to the passageway 74 described above, the description of passageway 74 of tube 14 and fluid 78 is applicable to tube 114. Tube 116 is substantially similar to and formed from similar material as aspirating passageway 76 described above, the description of passageway 76 of tube 14 and fluid 78 is applicable to tube 116. System 110 can be used in conjunction with a system similar to system 10 described above, or it may be used alone. Operation of system 10 is similar to 110 and the description of system 10 is applicable to system 110.

In system 110, it would be necessary to cut and dislodge vitreous cells using a cutting mechanism, such as a knife or other device, as is known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Once the cells have been dislodged, system 110 could then be inserted into a chamber in the eye. As seen in FIG. 8, system 110 injects fluid 78 into the vitreous 118 on an eye 36 irrigating cells therein. These dislodged cells and the fluid injected into the eye are then aspirated using tube 116, in a substantially similar manner as described above for aspirating passageway 76.

Additionally, system 110 or system 10 described above can have a fiber optic cable (not shown) attached to tube 114 or tube 116 to illuminate the area in which the sells are to be removed. The fiber optic cable does not necessarily have to be coupled to a tube, and may be a separate instrument. System 110 may also have a guide wire (not shown) to add rigidity and control to system 110.

Embodiment of FIGS. 9–16

A further embodiment of the present invention will now be described. As seen in FIGS. 9–13, system 210 has a brush 212 and a tubes 214 and 260 substantially similar to brush 12, tube 14, and tube 60, respectively, and any description of brush 12 and tubes 14 and 60 above applies to brush 212 and tubes 214 and 260. Additionally, brush 212 is disposed in a system substantially similar to system 10 and the description of system 10 applies to system 210. However, as seen in FIG. 9, this embodiment employs a motor 216 as described in more detail below.

As seen in FIGS. 10–12, tubes 214 and 260 are disposed in a cavity or chamber 216 of outer tube 218. Brush 212 is coupled to tube 218 in the same manner as brush 12 is coupled to tube 14 described above. Tube 218 is made from a synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable material and has a hole 220 that along with hole 262 of brush 212 defines through passageway 222. Open end 261 of tube 260 is adapted to align with through passageway 222 and allows a heated fluid such as water to inflate brush 212. The heated fluid used to inflate brush 212 is substantially similar to the heated fluid to inflate brush 12 and the description thereof is applicable to this embodiment.

As seen in FIG. 14, outer tube 218 has a series of teeth 224 coupled to the exterior surface. These teeth engage a gear 226 coupled to electric motor 217, the combination adapted to reciprocate tube 218 and brush 212 connected thereto in the directions of arrows 227. Electric motor 217 may be adapted to oscillate brush 212 at frequencies ranging from about one cycle per second up to several thousand cycles per minute. This motion or movement allows the brush to move back and forth with respect to tube 212 and the remainder of the system, and assist in dislodging lens fiber 45 and epithelial cells 47 from the lens capsule 48.

As seen in FIG. 14, electric motor 217 is electrically coupled to a controller 219 that controls the frequency of the oscillations of brush 212 and can turn the electric motor 217 on and off.

As seen in FIGS. 15 and 16, a gear 228 is coupled to and surrounds tube 218 and engages gear 230 that is connected to electric motor 217. This combination allows tube 218 and the brush 212 coupled thereto to rotate with respect to tubes 214 and 260 and the remainder of the system and assist in dislodging lens fiber 45 and epithelial cells 47 from the lens capsule 48. Electric motor 217 may be adapted to rotate brush 212 at a rate ranging from about one rotation per second up to several thousand rotations per minute.

As seen in FIGS. 15 and 16, electric motor 217 is electrically coupled to a controller 219 that controls the rate of the rotation of brush 212 and can turn the electric motor 217 on and off.

These two examples of motion of the tube 218 and the brush 212 with respect to the tube 214 are examples only and do not limit the brush and tube from other movement or combinations of movement, such as a gear configuration that would allow the brush to simultaneously or sequentially rotate and/or oscillate.

Embodiment of FIGS. 17–20

A further embodiment of the present invention will now be described. As seen in FIGS. 17–20, system 310 has a brush 312 and tubes 314 and 360. Brush 312 and tube 360 are substantially similar to brush 12 and tube 60, respectively, and any description of brush 12 and tube 60 above applies to brush 312 and tubes 314 and 360. Additionally, brush 312 is disposed in a system substantially similar to system 10 and may be disposed in a system substantially similar to system 210 and the descriptions of systems 10 and 210 apply to system 310.

Tube 314 may be made from a synthetic material such as silicone, plastic or any other suitable material. Tube 314 preferably has an inner surface 368, an outer surface 370, a closed distal end 371, a wall 372, and preferably two apertures 380 and 382 extending from outer surface 370 to inner surface 368. Wall 372 and surface 368 define two equal or substantially equal through passageways 374 and 376. However, passageways 374 and 376 do not have to be substantially equal, and may be any size or suitable configuration that would allow a fluid to pass therethrough. Additionally, passageways 374 and 376 do not necessarily need to be disposed in one tube and may be individual tubes either separated or coupled together. Aperture 380 extends through outer surface 370 and into passageway 374 and preferably, aperture 382 extends through the outer surface 370 and into passageway 376. However, it is not necessary to have aperture 382, as described below. Apertures 380 and 382 may be any size or configuration that would allow fluid 378 and cells within the eye 36 to pass therethrough. Apertures 380 and 382 may also be placed anywhere along the length or periphery of tube 314 or there may be multiple apertures extending through surface 370 and into each passageway 374 and 376, as deemed necessary. Wall 372 extends substantially the entire length of tube 314, however it does not extend to and abut end 371. Wall 372 terminates a predetermined distance from end 372 leaving a passage 375 between passageways 376 and 374, allowing fluid and lens cells or any other cells to pass from passageway 374 to passageway 376.

Similar to system 10 above, brush 312 and tube 314 are inserted into a semi-closed lens capsule 48 and brush 312 is inflated and used to dislodge cells, such as lens epithelial 47 or lens fiber 45 or any other desired cells. Using a high pressure pump substantially similar to pump 20, described above for system 10, a fluid 378 is pumped into tube 314, or more specifically passageway 374, under high pressure. Fluid 378 is substantially similar to fluid 78 and the description thereof applies to fluid 378. As fluid 378 flows through passageway 374 it passes aperture 380 creating suction at aperture 380, while allowing no or minimal fluid to pass through the aperture 380. The suction at aperture 380 draws fluid (i.e. the minimal fluid that passes through aperture 380 or fluid that passes through aperture 382, described in more detail below) and cells into passageway 374. The cells that are drawn in may be any cells dislodged or cellularly attached in the eye. The cells may be epithelial cells, cell fiber, or any other cells to be removed from the interior of the eye. Once the cells are drawn into passageway 374 they are cut or dislodged from the lens capsule 48 or any other portion of the eye by the high pressure fluid flow and similarly swept away. The flow contacts the closed end 371 and passes through passageway 375 and into passageway 374, where it returns to reservoir 32, if there is no aperture 382.

Preferably, however, there is another aperture 382 in passageway 376. In which case, since the fluid in passageway 376 will not be under high pressure, some of the fluid and/or cells may escape through aperture 382, most of the fluid and cells return to reservoir 32, similar to the systems 10 and 210 described above. However, the material and fluid that escapes through aperture 382 is released into the semi-closed lens capsule system and returns into the suction aperture 380. As this process repeats itself, a decreasing number of the cells from the eye escape back into the lens capsule until virtually no cells escape from the aperture 382.

The use of the high pressure system to cut and cycle the fluid 378 may be used before, after or during the use of brush 312. It is not necessary for the use of the tube to follow the use of the brush and they may be alternately used in any order, any number of times.

Additionally, it is possible to use tube 314 without brush 312, in the lens capsule 48, as described above, or to remove vitreous in the eye as described in the embodiment of FIG. 8. If tube 314 were used to remove vitreous, it would not be necessary to cut or dislodge the vitreous prior to insertion of tube 314 into the eye, as described above. The high pressure water system would cut and dislodge the vitreous and remove the cells therefrom.

The features of systems 110, 210, and 310, which are similar to system 10 are identified with like reference numbers. The same description of those similar features is applicable.

Embodiments of FIGS. 21 and 22

As seen in FIGS. 21 and 22, system 410 is a device for removing cataract, as described herein. System 410 includes a housing 412, an irrigating or delivery tube or portion 414 and aspirating or return tube or portion 460 and a tank system 416. The system 410, similar to the embodiments described above, is a high pressure fluid delivery system that circulates fluid from tank 436 through tube 414 back through tube 460 and into tank 438. Preferably, tubes 414 and 460 define a continuous passageway that rotates relative to an internal portion or chamber of the eye and housing 412.

Housing 412 is preferably plastic and has an upper portion 418 and a lower portion 420. Upper housing portion 418 is preferably a plastic cylindrical tube that has a first open end 422 and a second open end 424. Additionally, upper housing portion 418 extends upwardly or away from lower housing portion 420. Upper housing portion 418 has a diameter that allows tubes 414 and 460 to pass therethrough, but is still small enough to pass through an opening (similar to any opening described above) in the eye. Lower housing portion 420 is preferably substantially cylindrical and houses tank system 416.

Lower housing portion 420 preferably has a larger diameter than the upper housing portion; however, the relative diameters between the two housing portions can be any ratio desired. For example, the diameters can be substantially the same or the upper housing portion can have a diameter that is larger than the lower housing portion. Lower housing portion 420 has a first closed end 426 with a first end surface 428 and a second end 430 with a second end surface 432. Second end 430 preferably has an opening 434 therein, which communicates with the second open end of upper housing portion 424.

Lower housing portion 420 is preferably large enough to house tank system 416, which includes a first tank 436 and a second tank 438. Each tank is shown in FIG. 21 as being substantially cylindrical; however each tank 436 and 438 can be any shape desired, as long as they are each at least between at or about 1 millimeter and at or about 10 milliliter in volume, or as large or small as necessary to adequately irrigate and/or aspirate the eye during the procedure described herein. Each tank is preferably located on a platform or surface 440. Surface 440 is preferably mechanically coupled to an engine or motor 442, which is capable of rotating surface 440 at a high speed, such as at or about 1000 rpms to about 50,000 rpms or about 60,000 rpms or more, which in turn rotates tanks 436 and 438, and tubes 414 and 460. First end 426 has a switch 433 thereon that is electrically coupled to motor 442, which can manually turn motor 442 on and/or off. It is noted that the described and shown device and method of rotating tanks 426 and 438 is merely exemplary and the tanks can be rotated in any manner desired, and not necessarily in the manner described herein, as long as the result of rotating the tanks is the high speed rotation of tubes 414 and 460.

Tank 436 has an opening 444 in the top surface thereof, to which a bottom end of tube 414 is connected, and tank 438 has an opening 446 in the top surface thereof, to which the bottom portion of tube 460 is connected. However, it is noted that the openings can be placed in any positioned relative to the top and bottom of the tanks 436 and 438.

Preferably, as irrigation tube 414 extends outwardly from tank 436, it passes through opening 434 in lower housing portion 420 and into upper housing portion 418. Upper housing portion 418 is preferably a cylindrical plastic tube; however, portion 418 can be any shape or material desired, as long as it is capable of protecting tubes 418 and 460. Furthermore, it is not necessary to have upper housing portion 418, although it is generally preferable since, housing portion 418 can protect system 410 from inadvertently tangling with the inner portion of the eye during rotation of the tubes 414 and 460.

As tube 414 extends upwardly through the passageway 450 defined through upper housing portion 418, tube 414 intertwines with tube 460. During operation, each tube 414 and 460 rotates around central axis 448 that extends substantially through the center of upper housing portion 418, as indicated by arrow 451. By intertwining the tubes in this manner, circulation of fluid through the tubes is achieved. However, it is noted that it is not necessary to intertwine the tubes 414 and 460, and they can extend substantially parallel to each other, as shown in FIG. 22. The fluid can be any suitable fluid, such as, water, saline solution or any other fluid described above.

A portion of tube 414 extends upwardly and out of the first open end 422 of upper housing 418, as does a portion of tube 460. Tubes 414 and 460 are connected adjacent the first end of the upper housing 418 by a curved, rounded or arced end portion 452. Preferably, curved portion 452 is positioned outside of passageway 450; however, a portion of curved portion 452 can be received within passageway 450, even substantially all of curved portion 452 can be received in passageway 450, as long as at least the end 454 of curved portion 452 extends beyond end 422.

Curved portion 452 has at least one opening 456 and preferably several openings 456, up to as many as preferable therein. Openings 456 extend from the outer surface of curved portion 452 to the passageway defined therein for the passage of a fluid therethrough. Additionally, the openings allow fluid and cells from the interior portion of the eye to pass into the curved portion, as indicated by arrows 458, and allow fluid from the interior portion of the curved portion to pass into the eye. Furthermore openings 456 allow fluid originally from the eye to pass out of the curved portion and back again into the interior portion of the eye, as indicated by arrows 462.

Preferably, each tube 414 and 460 and curved portion 452 has a diameter between about 200 microns to about 500 microns, but each can be up to about 3 mm in diameters. Preferably, the entire overall dimension of tube 414 and 460 is at or about 800 microns to at or about 1000 microns in width; however, the entire width can be about 3 mm or greater, if desired. The smaller diameter allows greater circulation of the fluid within the tubes.

Operation

During a procedure to eliminate cells from an interior portion of the eye, such as the removal of cells forming the cataract from the eye without or substantially without causing protein denaturation to occur in the eye, the system 410 is inserted into an opening formed in the eye, as described above. The system is inserted into the lens of the eye or any other interior portion or chamber of the eye desired, and switch 433 is activated to turn the motor 442 on, which in turn rotates the tanks 436 and 438 and the tubes 414 and 460. It is noted that that the tubes do not necessarily need to rotate in this specific manner (i.e., the manual switch to turn on the motor to rotate the tanks), and can be rotated in any manner desired. For example, the switch can be time controlled or activated/deactivated at certain immediate environmental conditions, such as activated when surrounded by certain biological conditions or material in the eye.

The high pressure fluid can be circulated through the entire system in any conventional manner, such as high pressure air, a pump or in any other manner desired. The high speed rotation of the tubes induces further circulation of the fluid through the system. It is noted that the circulation of the fluid can be based solely on the high speed rotation of the tubes and therefore, no external pressure device would be needed. As the fluid passes internally adjacent openings 462, fluid and cells from the internal portion of the eye pass through the openings 462 and into the passageway defined by the tube, due to the vacuum caused by the fluid passing the opening, as described above. The rotation of the tubes, along with the force of the high pressure fluid severs the undesired cells from the interior portion of the eye, thus removing any undesired or cataract cells. The fluid and cells then travel back through tube 460 and into tank 446.

Some fluid (both from tank 436 and from the eye) and some cells are recirculated into the eye through at least one of the openings 462. After a predetermined amount of time, substantially all dislodged and undesired cells are removed from the interior portion of the eye and into tank 438.

Furthermore, any description of the above embodiments is applicable to system 410, except the differences specifically described herein.

Embodiment of FIG. 23

As shown in FIG. 23, the tanks 436 a and 438 a do not need to rotate themselves, as long as they allow tubes 414 a and 460 a to rotate, as indicated by arrow 470. Each tank 436 a and 438 a is substantially ring shaped, with a rectangular cross section. As shown in FIG. 23, tank 436 a is positioned to overlie or lie on top of tank 438 a; however, it is noted that the tanks can be positioned in any manner relative to each other, as long as tubes 414 a and 460 a are allowed to rotate.

Tanks 414 a and 460 a each has an inner wall 472 a and 474 a, respectively, that are coupled to tubes 414 a and 460 a, respectively, through openings 476 and 478, respectively. Furthermore, each inner wall 472 a and 474 a is adapted to move or rotate relative to the rest of a respective tank, and therefore rotate with the tubes 414 a and 460 a, respectively. As seen in FIG. 23, the rotation of the inner wall of each tank allows the tubes 414 a and 460 a to rotate without a tank rotation structure, as described above.

Tubes 414 a and 460 a are preferably coupled to a supporting structure 480, which has a gear 482 thereon. Gear 482 meshes with gear 484, which is in turn coupled to motor 490. Motor 490 is electrically coupled to switch 433, which is adapted to turn on the motor 490, as described above. However, it is not necessary to use this specific configuration for rotating the walls 474 a and 472 a and the tubes 414 a and 460 a, and any gear/motor structure desired can be used.

It is understood that the tank rotation configurations described above are merely exemplary and any structure that would allow continual full 360° rotation or even partial rotation (i.e. greater than about 30°) of the tubes 414 and 460 and 414 a and 460 a is desirable. For example, each tank structure described above can allow reciprocating rotation, wherein the tubes travel in an arcing direction for a predetermined length of an arc, such as 45°, 90°, 180°, or any other arc desired. It is noted that the reciprocating movement of the tubes does not necessarily need to be less than 360°, and it can be more or much more than 360°.

Additionally, the tubes can have an initial configuration with the end adjacent the tanks and/or the tanks themselves situated in a fixed position (i.e., the tanks do not rotate), and begin in a position similar to that described and shown in FIG. 22. In this embodiment, the tubes would be flexible and would wind about each other, resulting in a configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 21. At a predetermined time or after a predetermined number of rotations, the tubes would rotate in the opposite direction, and thus begin unwinding. The tubes would then pass through the configuration shown in FIG. 22 and wind together in the opposite direction for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of rotations, again ending in a configuration similar to that described and shown in FIG. 21, where the procedure would be repeated as many times as desired. This would allow the tubes to rotate relative to the interior portion of the eye and/or the housing without having the rotating tank/tank wall configurations described above.

Embodiment of FIG. 24

FIG. 24 shows another system 510 for removing or eliminating cells from an interior portion of an eye, in which the tubes 514 and 560 are coupled together by an end portion 554, the end portion, having an internal propeller or cutting edge 560 and an external propeller or cutting edge 564. Tubes 514 and 560 and end portion 554 define a continuous passageway 555.

Tubes 514 and 560 are preferably plastic and substantially similar in construction to tubes 414 and 460, respectively, and any description thereof is applicable to this embodiment; however, it is noted that that tubes 514 and 560 preferably do not rotate relative to the interior portion of the eye or each other. Furthermore, each tube 514 and 560 is preferably about 50 microns to about 1500 microns in diameter and the overall width of the portion of system 510 that is inserted into the eye is about 200 microns to about 3000 microns. It is noted that tubes 514 and 560 do not necessarily need to be spaced apart and can be coupled to each other, as long as the internal passageway defined by each tube remains separate and distinct from the other tube.

End portion 554 preferably defines an inner cavity 564 that has a first curved or arcuate end 566 and a second curved or arcuate end 568. The inner cavity houses propeller or rotating blade 560 that is adapted to rotate relative to the inner cavity and is coupled to the first end 566 using mechanism 570. Mechanism 570 is preferably merely a stand or rod 572 that is attached to end 566 on one end and is attached to the propeller 560 on the other end. The propeller 560 preferably rotates due to the flow of high pressure fluid through the system.

First end 566 has openings 562 therein. Openings 562 are for substantially the same purpose as openings 462, and therefore will not be described herein. Second propeller or rotating blade 564 is attached to the outer surface of end 566 via mechanism 574, which is substantially similar to mechanism 570. Preferably, propeller 564 rotates relative to the outer surface of end 566 and the interior portion of the eye due to the flow of fluid through the tubes 514 and 560. More specifically, preferably propellers 560 and 564 are mechanically or electrically coupled together through mechanisms 570 and 574 in any conventional manner, and therefore as fluid flows through the tubes, it rotates propeller 560, which in turn rotates propeller 564.

However, it is not necessary to have both propellers 560 and 564. For example, it is possible to have only one propeller 560 or 564. In the case of only propeller 560, the fluid would cause the propeller to rotate as described above. On the other hand, in the case of only propeller 564, the fluid would pass a secondary device (not shown) that would be linked or mechanically or electrically coupled to propeller 564 in any conventional manner that would cause the propeller to rotate. Furthermore, it is noted that the description herein is not limited to one external and one internal propeller. There can be multiple internal and/or multiple external propellers, if desired.

Operation

System 510 is inserted into an interior portion of the eye, as described for the embodiments above. Fluid is passed through the tube 514 in a similar manner as also described above. The fluid passes adjacent opening 562, causing interior eye fluid and cells to pass therein. The fluid substantially simultaneously passes propeller 560 to rotate. Interior eye cells are then severed from the interior portion of the eye due to the force of the high pressure fluid and the cutting action of the propeller 560.

Additionally, propeller 560 causes propeller 564 to rotate, which since it is external to system 510 contacts portions or cells in the interior of the eye, and cuts or severs these cells, which are in turn sucked into the openings 562.

As with the systems described above, the openings allow cells and/or fluid to both enter the system and leave the system and are therefore circulated through the eye and the system 510. However, after a predetermined amount of time all desired dislodged cells are removed through the openings 562.

Furthermore, any description of the above embodiments is applicable to system 510, except the differences specifically described herein.

Any description herein using up, down, upper, lower, or any other orientation is merely to described elements of the herein described embodiments relative to each other and are not meant to limit the structure or invention in any way.

While a few specific embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. 

1. A system for removing cells from an interior portion of an eye, comprising: a continuous passageway adapted to pass a fluid therethrough; a component for imparting fluid circulation flow through said continuous passageway; and a movable first cutting edge coupled to an exterior portion of said continuous passageway for dislodging cells from the interior portion of the eye, said first cutting edge moving relative to said exterior portion of said continuous passageway due to the passing of said fluid through said continuous passageway.
 2. A system according to claim 1, wherein said continuous passageway has at least one aperture therethrough, said at least one aperture adapted to allow at least some of said cells to pass from the interior portion of the eye and into said continuous passageway.
 3. A system according to claim 2, wherein said continuous passageway has a second cutting edge situated therein.
 4. A system according to claim 3, wherein said first cutting edge is a first rotating blade positioned externally of said continuous passageway for dislodging cells from the interior portion of the eye.
 5. A system according to claim 4, wherein said second cutting edge is a second rotating blade.
 6. A system according to claim 5, wherein said second rotating blade rotates by said fluid passing through said continuous passageway.
 7. A system according to claim 6, wherein said first rotating blade is mechanically coupled to said second rotating blade, and said mechanically coupling causes said first rotating blade to rotate when said second rotating blade rotates.
 8. A system according to claim 1, wherein said first cutting edge is a first rotating blade.
 9. A system according to claim 8, wherein said continuous passageway has a second rotating blade situated therein.
 10. A system according to claim 9, wherein said first rotating blade is coupled to said second rotating blade, and said coupling causes said first rotating blade to rotate when said second rotating blade rotates.
 11. A system according to claim 8, wherein said first rotating blade rotates in response to fluid passing through the continuous passageway.
 12. A system according to claim 1, wherein said movable first cutting edge includes a drive member positioned in said continuous passageway and moving in response to fluid passing through said passageway, said drive member being operatively connected to said first cutting edge for moving said first cutting edge.
 13. A system according to claim 1, wherein said movable first cutting edge includes a movable blade that is fluid driven by fluid passing through said continuous passageway.
 14. A system for removing cells from an interior portion of an eye, comprising: a continuous passageway adapted to pass a fluid therethrough; a component for imparting fluid circulation through said continuous passageway; and a first cutting device coupled to an interior portion of said continuous passageway for dislodging cells from the interior portion of the eye, said first cutting device moving relative to said interior portion of said continuous passageway due to the passing of said fluid through said continuous passageway.
 15. A system according to claim 14, wherein said continuous passageway has at least one aperture therethrough, said at least one aperture adapted to allow at least some of said cells to pass from the interior portion of the eye and into said continuous passageway.
 16. A system according to claim 14, wherein said first cutting device includes a first rotating blade positioned externally from said continuous passageway for dislodging cells from the interior portion of the eye; and a second rotating blade positioned in said continuous passageway and being coupled to said first rotating blade for rotating said first rotating blade.
 17. A system of claim 14, wherein said first cutting device includes a movable blade positioned in said continuous passageway and is movable by said fluid passing through said continuous passageway.
 18. A system of claim 17, wherein said movable blade is coupled to a second movable cutting device, said second movable cutting device being movable in response to movement of said movable blade.
 19. A system for removing cells from an interior of an eye, comprising: an instrument adapted to pass through an incision in an eye and having a surface adapted to contact and dislodge cells from said interior of the eye; said instrument including a central axis, a continuous passageway having a first tube portion, a second tube portion, and a substantially U-shaped end portion extending between said first tube portion and second tube portion, a housing, and a component for imparting fluid circulation through said continuous passageway; said first tube portion adapted for infusing a fluid into the eye to dislodge at least some of the cells therein, said second tube for aspirating fluid and dislodging at least some of the cells out the eye; said U-shaped end portion having at least one aperture adapted to allow fluid to pass between the interior of the eye and said continuous passageway; said housing having an upper and a lower portion, said continuous passageway extending through said upper portion, said lower portion having therein a tank system in fluid communication with said continuous passageway; at least one rotatable member coupled to said continuous passageway; whereby said rotatable member induces further fluid circulation facilitating the dislodging of at least some of the cells from the interior of the eye.
 20. A system according to claim 19, wherein said at least one rotatable member includes a driver for rotating said continuous passageway.
 21. A system according to claim 20, wherein said fluid flowing through said continuous passageway flows adjacent said at least one aperture causing a suctioning force, said suctioning force being adapted to dislodge said at least some of the cells from the eye.
 22. A system according to claim 21, wherein said first and second tube portions are intertwined.
 23. A system according to claim 22, wherein said tank system is rotatably coupled with said continuous passageway.
 24. A system according to claim 21, wherein said first and second tube portions are substantially parallel.
 25. A system according to claim 24, wherein said tank system is rotatably coupled with said continuous passageway.
 26. A system according to claim 19, wherein said at least one rotatable member includes a first cutting edge coupled to an exterior portion of said continuous passageway for dislodging said at least some of the cells from the interior portion of the eye, said first cutting edge moving relative to said exterior portion of said continuous passageway due to the passing of said fluid through said continuous passageway.
 27. A system according to claim 26, wherein said continuous passageway has a second rotatable cutting edge coupled to an interior portion, said second rotatable cutting edge rotatable due to the passing of fluid through said continuous passageway.
 28. A system according to claim 19, wherein said at least one rotatable member includes a first cutting device coupled to an interior portion of said continuous passageway for dislodging said at least some of the cells from the interior portion of the eye, said first cutting device moving relative to said interior portion of said continuous passageway due to the passing of said fluid through said continuous passageway.
 29. A system of claim 19, wherein said first tube portion, second tube portion and U-shaped end portion are rotatable with respect to said housing and rotatable in response to said fluid passing through said continuous passageway.
 30. A system of claim 19, wherein said component for imparting fluid circulation induces fluid flow through said first tube portion to said U-shaped end portion and from said U-shaped end portion through said second tube portion. 